Web users have short attention spans and limited time. We need to ensure users can quickly and effectively find what they are looking for. As most users scan rather than read content, structure is important. The most effective way to write content for the web that meets your user’s needs is by adopting the inverted pyramid method.
What is the pyramid method?
This style of writing prioritises information to have the most important at the top. What is it you require your users to know? A call to action will follow with extra information secondary.
Some of you may be familiar with the pyramid style from news article writing. The introduction should summarise the content your user is about to read. A reader can judge if the information is relevant and whether they should read on. Your key message should be in the introduction.
Why use the pyramid method
This method allows for your content to be clear and adaptable. With a journalistic approach the pyramid method allows for your content to be cut at any stage with the core message and theme still present. This is important if you have space limitations or if your page has high traffic from mobile devices.
Be sure to format information with easy to read headings, sub headings and chunks of text. Short and easy to read sentences will also keep your reader engaged.
Remember:
- Make content easy to read. Headings, sub heading and one topic per paragraph
- Ensure topic is at beginning of sentence
- Structure content with most important information first. (consider the MADE acronym- Main message, Action, Detail, Extra details.)
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